Preauricular Incision Research Articles

The diagnosis and treatment of intramuscular hemangiomas of the masseter muscle

Two cases of hemangioma of the masseter muscle are presented with a review of the literature. The possibility of an intramuscular hemangioma should be considered in any lateral facial swelling, particularly one anterior to the parotid. Total excision of the hemangioma with a margin of normal muscle is recommended. The approach utilized by the authors is a preauricular incision with elevation of a flap lateral to the parotid gland. This provides an excellent exposure for removal of the tumor with minimal risk to the facial nerve and minimal cosmetic deformity.

Temporomandibular degenerative joint disease: Part II. Diagnostic procedure and comprehensive management

The diagnostic procedure is given in the detail necessary to arrive at an accurate diagnosis of temporomandibular degenerative joint disease (TDJD). The differentiating clinical findings of degenerative joint disease (DJD) and rheumatoid arthritis of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) are described. Principles and modalities of comprehensive management of TDJD are presented in the manner and sequence needed to allow practical clinical application. Methods of treatment are applied to the management of patients with acute and chronic TDJD. The surgical procedure for TDJD, intracapsular high condylectomy with a preauricular incision, is described in the detail required for individual application. Case reports are presented to illustrate the comprehensive management of TDJD.

Chronic masticator space infection.

Six cases of chronic masticator space infection associated with firm facial swelling and progressive trismus are described. Intraoral wound drainage and prolonged antibiotic therapy failed to control the resultant chronic cellulitis. Exposure and drainage of the masticator space and contiguous structures through a modified Blair preauricular and cervical incision was performed. The combination of multifocal drainage, limited debridement, and adjunctive antibiotic therapy controlled the inflammatory response and hastened rehabilitation.

Surgical management of preauricular tumors of the accessory parotid apparatus

Tumors of the accessory parotid apparatus and other lesions of the soft parts of the cheek can be adequately removed through a preauricular hockey stick incision with the development of an anterior cheek flap and with preservation of the parotid gland. This approach permits satisfactory removal of these lesions with adequate protection of the facial nerve and Stensen's duct. This was accomplished in twenty patients resulting in an improved cosmetic result, lessened morbidity, and decreased surgical time.

Spastic facial palsy—peripheral selective neurotomy

Summary The authors advocate the treatment of spastic facial palsy by total and definitive neurotomy of the distal branches of the nerve, close to the affected muscles. To reach these branches an ˦sthetic pre-auricular incision is proposed, following a technique similar to a face-lifting operation.